Irish WBB set for another top-five road game

NOTRE DAME, Ind. - Notre Dame women's basketball is used to playing on the big stage.

While the UConn matchup is always one that gains attention, Thursday's game with Louisville will bring the same level of competition.

The Irish enter the game ranked second in the nation, riding an eight-game winning streak.

The Cardinals, though, boast a perfect 18-0 record and are ranked third, just behind Notre Dame.

“We’re really ready for this game," said head coach Muffet McGraw. "I think it’s kind of been looming in the future. But it’s one where we have to take it like every other game.”

Of course, that is always the mindset - keeping a big game from having too much pressure.

This top-five matchup would be difficult enough, but Notre Dame's injury problems plus the Louisville crowd are sure to make this one of the biggest tests of the season.

“They have a lot of fans, so it’s going to be hard to hear everything," said guard Arike Ogunbowale. "They have a lot of support so it’s going to be a crazy environment.”

However, that big-game environment is one the Irish are used to. Thursday could have big implications in the race for an ACC championship, but with high-profile games each season, McGraw believes that will be one advantage for her team.

“I think we love the big stage. That’s why they come to Notre Dame, for these kinds of games," she said. "It’s a top-five matchup, and an NCAA tournament game feel. Both teams are going to be really good this year, so this is an important game for both of us.”

The game will tip at 7 p.m. at the KFC Yum! Center.